BOTSWANA HOLIDAYS

Known as the jewel in Africa’s crown, Botswana is a truly magnificent country. With its stirring landscapes, superb wildlife conservation, thriving diamond industry and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why this once hidden gem is quickly becoming one of the most sought after and exclusive safari destinations in Africa. Botswana is a treasure trove brimming with natural beauty and wealth. The sandy, flat lands of the Sahara give way to untamed and unspoilt wilderness, where lions, elephants, rhinos, antelope and so many other animals are free to roam. Just a peek inside the intricate and majestic life of the wild paradise is the opportunity of a lifetime.

Game Reserves and National Parks

Botswana is known for its conservation efforts and strict safari regulations. Its national parks provide a safe haven for many of Africa’s endangered animals, including cheetahs, brown hyenas, cape vultures, wattled cranes, the wild dog, Pel’s fishing owl and several other bird species. Botswana boasts several well-kept reserves that work to protect the animals and ecosystem of the country. The Chobe Natioanl Reserve is the most popular safari location and is home to elephants, buffalo and lions. The Moremi Game Reserve, which covers one third of the Delta, is home to the big five and contains Africa’s largest population of red lechwe (antelope). Being one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, Botswana takes large measures to ensure that its wilderness is protected.

Landscape

Botswana is made up primarily of vast, flat plains with the Kalahari sands covering about 84 per cent of the country. However, the country encases one of the world’s great natural wonders and largest intact delta – the Okavango. Like the land-locked country, it’s mesmerising how one patch of land, nestled in a massive expanse of desert, can be so rich and full of life. Here, at this wildlife oasis, wildebeests, zebras, crocodiles, frogs black and white rhinoceros, African wild dogs, cheetahs and birds gather around the papyrus-feathered, crystal-clear waterways. Just south of the Okavango, is Central Kalahari – the largest game reserve in the word. Combined these geographical regions epitomise the beauty and grandeur of the African wilderness.

A Diamond in the Rough

Just over 50 years ago, Botswana underwent a major change when it was discovered that the country was sitting on a bed of diamonds. The nation soon became the world’s largest producer of the gem and the resulting economic boom turned it into a middle-income country and one of Africa’s most prosperous. Consequently, the high demand for diamonds and burgeoning mining industry has threatened the beloved land and wildlife – especially in the Delta, where water reserves are limited.

Culture

While Botswana is known for its astonishingly rich wildlife and expansive stretches of untamed wilderness, its people and rich culture are just as alluring. A visit to one of the local villages treats travellers to a first-hand experience of time-honoured customs and traditions. The Kalahari Bushmen are the last of a dying breed who are trying to maintain their hunter-gatherer lifestyle. For several thousands of years, the Bushmen roamed the land freely. Now, due to political issues and modernisation, there is believed to be only 100,000 Bushmen left on the entire continent. A visit with the Bushmen is a must. To experience an untamed and unspoilt Africa, Botswana is the place to visit.

What better way to discover the wilderness areas of Botswana than on a tented safari? Experience the stunning beauty of the country on this ten day tour that takes you from Maun to Victoria Falls, enjoying a range of game viewing activities along the way. A memorable journey that will never be forgotten.
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Botswana

A truly mystifying, serene and extraordinary place; it’s no wonder that Botswana is one of the premiere safari destinations in Africa. The country is home to large concentrations of elephants, wildebeests, buffalo, zebras, antelopes, crocs and numerous other animals. From vast, arid deserts and intricate waterways to lush delta grasslands and dense forests, Botswana is a wonderfully diverse land. With so many incredible landscapes and memorable moments, it can be difficult to single out the very best.

Things to do in Botswana

Take a walk on the wild side with a game drive through the breathtaking Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

Go to the centre of the desert in search of one of the world’s largest inland river deltas – Okavango Delta – with its constantly evolving waterways.

Spend time with the Kalahari Bushmen who have a distinct culture and lifestyle that is truly awe-inspiring. Watch as their customs, harmonious music and folklore dances coincide with rhythms of nature.

Get your fill of elephant sittings at Chobe National Park, which has one of the densest concentrations of this animal in Africa. Like in the Serengeti, Chobe also contains hundreds of species of birds and welcomes the annual migration of zebra.

See what Botswana has to offer first hand by taking a tailor-made holiday to Africa.

While it’s always a good idea to travel lightly, some things you may not need to pack for other holidays are a requirement when travelling to Botswana. Botswana is a spectacular place, but many parts of the country are lacking in modern day conveniences. To ensure that you have a healthy, enjoyable stay, be sure to keep the following in mind:

The temperatures in Botswana are hot, but they can change day to night, so be sure to pack several layers. Pick clothing that is loose, light-coloured and that dries fast. Make sure to include a variety of long and short-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts bathing suit and a light jacket. Bring shoes that are comfortable for walking and sandals.

To prevent heat exhaustion and sunburn, bring plenty of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Salt tablets and electrolyte packets are also beneficial.
Prior to departure, consult a physician to ensure that you are up-to-date on all medications. It is highly advised that visitors take anti-malarial drugs, because mosquitoes are common, especially in the north. Other medicinal items include a first aid kit, anti-diaherra medication, insect repellent, pain relief, antibacterial cream and water-purification tablets. Binoculars and a camera are must for safaris and other excursions. Keep them on hand, as you never know what is lurking around the corner. Also include a torch, pocket knife and a sleeping bag and camp gear if it is not provided by the tour guide.

Capital – Gaborone

Time Zone – GMT + 2 hours

Language – English is the official language. Setswana is the national language.

Currency – Pula (P) = 100 thebe

Botswana enjoys a semi-arid climate, which means it is hot and dry for most of the year. However, the country does experience extreme temperatures and weather.

The rainy season runs from November to March, with days that are humid and temperatures that range from 30°C to 38°C. These summer months are considered to be the most fertile with the sprouting vegetation and increased activity among the animals – especially in the Kalahari. Be aware that the heavy rains can make roads impassable and animal sightings harder.

In the winter (May to August), temperatures drop to between 5°C and 25°C. August is often the hottest time of the year.

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